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Think of an eSIM as the digital version of a traditional plastic SIM card. Instead of a physical card, you can download eSIM software directly to your phone and connect to local mobile networks almost anywhere in the world. It's not only more convenient but also environmentally friendly.
All you need to do is download the Sim Local app, activate a plan, and you're good to go. It's that simple!
It’s important to have uninterrupted smartphone connectivity, especially when travelling abroad. Here’s why more people are making the switch to eSIM:
There’s a couple of ways to get an eSIM:
You’ll need to check the plan description to confirm whether calls and texts are included.
Some plans come with a phone number that allows you to make and receive calls and send SMS messages.*
Other eSIMs are data-only, which means you can still make calls and send messages using data apps such as WhatsApp, FaceTime, or social media platforms.
*Please note: If you purchase a plan from Orange, you will be always be assigned a French phone number starting with +33.
An easy way to verify if you phone is unlocked is by using a SIM Card or eSIM from another network and seeing if you can make a call or connect to the internet. If the phone works, it's unlocked!
If you cannot verify your unlock status via the methods below, you need to contact your existing network provider to check your unlock status.
1. Go to Settings.
2. Tap on General, then About.
3. Scroll down to the Network Provider Lock section.
4. If it says "No SIM restrictions" your phone is unlocked.
1. Go to Settings.
2. Tap on About phone or System.
3. Look for "SIM Status" option
4. If it says "Unlocked" or "Network unlocked" status your phone is unlocked.
If you have a newer Apple, Samsung, or Google smartphone, chances are you can use an eSIM. For example, if you have iPhone 11, Samsung Fold S21, and Google Pixel 3—or anything newer—your device is probably eSIM capable.
But to double check, follow the steps below:
Go to Settings - Cellular or Mobile Service - If the "Add eSIM" option is displayed, your iPhone supports eSIM.
Alternatively, go to Settings - General - About - If you see a 15 digit IMEI number where it says Available SIM
Go to Settings - Connections - Sim Manager - If the "Add eSIM" or "Add carrier" option is displayed, your phone supports eSIM.
Alternatively, dial *#06#, if you see an EID number (not a MEID number), your phone supports eSIM.
You should also check that your phone is unlocked with your current Network provider. Check this quick guide for more information about this.
We recommend downloading and installing your eSIM just before you travel, while connected to a strong and stable Wi-Fi signal — for example, right before you leave for the airport.
Just a heads-up: your eSIM will only connect once you arrive at your destination.
Since activation rules can vary between operators, please check your plan details before you travel to confirm when your eSIM’s validity period begins and ends. This will help you make the most of your plan during your trip.
With the Sim Local app, downloading and installing your eSIM is quick and easy. Follow the steps below to get set up in just a few minutes.
How to Install Your eSIM for iOS and Android:
1. Open the Sim Local App - Make sure you have the latest version of the app installed on your device.
2. Click on Install Plan - This will initiate the eSIM installation process.
3. Select Download Plan - Your device will begin downloading the eSIM profile.
4. Tap Allow - When prompted, grant permission to add the eSIM.
Once completed, the eSIM will be automatically added to your device and ready to use.
Note: After installing your eSIM, make sure Data Roaming is turned ON for that eSIM, and that it is selected for mobile data:
For iOS: Settings → Mobile Service (or Cellular) → Mobile Data → choose your new eSIM.
For Android: Settings → Network & Internet (or Connections) → SIMs (or SIM Manager) → set your new eSIM as the preferred SIM for Mobile Data
1. Via the Camera App
Open the Camera app and point your camera towards your eSIM QR code.
A yellow prompt will appear on your screen. Tap this and follow the instructions to install your eSIM.
2. Via Settings
1. Go to Settings.
2. Select Mobile Service (or Cellular).
3. Select Add eSIM (also known as Add Cellular Plan, Add Data Plan).
4. Select Use QR Code, and scan your QR code.
3. Via Email
1. Open your order confirmation email.
2. Tap and hold the QR code, and select the Add eSIM option that appears.
Note: After installing your eSIM, make sure Data Roaming is turned ON for that eSIM, and that it is selected for mobile data: Settings → Mobile Service (or Cellular) → Mobile Data → choose your new eSIM.
You can download an eSIM manually to your iPhone or iPad using the download codes provided with your plan.
Then:
It may take a minute to download. Please keep your screen open during this time.
Note: After installing your eSIM, make sure Data Roaming is turned ON for that eSIM, and that it is selected for mobile data: Settings → Mobile Service (or Cellular) → Mobile Data → choose your new eSIM.
There are three ways to download an eSIM via QR code to your eSIM-enabled Samsung device:
1. Via the Camera app
Open the Camera app and point your camera towards your eSIM QR code.
A prompt will appear on your screen. Tap this and follow the instructions to install your eSIM.
2. Via Settings
1. Go to Settings.
2. Go to Connections, then tap SIM manager.
3. Select Add eSIM, then Scan QR Code. Scan your QR code.
3. Scan the screenshot or image (newer devices)
If you are using the latest version of One UI, you can also take a screenshot of your QR code an then:
1. Go to Settings.
2. Go to Connections, then tap SIM manager.
3. Select Add eSIM, then Scan QR Code. Select the image icon and select the screenshot of your QR code.
Note: After installing, make sure Data Roaming is switched ON, and that the eSIM is selected for mobile data: Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → set your new eSIM as the preferred SIM for Mobile Data.
You can download an eSIM manually to your Samsung device using the activation code provided with your plan.
Log into your Sim Local account and check your plan under My eSIM, or locate it in your confirmation email from noreply@simlocal.com.
Then:
Go to Settings.
Then select Connections.
Tap SIM manager.
Tap Add eSIM or Add mobile plan.
Select Use QR code and then Enter activation code.
Paste your activation code (copied from your order confirmation email or Sim Local account).
Note: After installing, make sure Data Roaming is switched ON, and that the eSIM is selected for mobile data: Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → set your new eSIM as the preferred SIM for Mobile Data.
Yes, absolutely. One of the advantages of eSIMs is that you can have several plans on your phone at any time and switch between them instantly depending on where you are and the plan you wish to use.
Please note: Some devices will limit the number of eSIMs you can store on your phone at any one time and you may need to remove an old eSIM to use a new one.
Yes, your eSIM is associated with your phone rather than your operator plan or phone number.
Ensuring that your eSIM is activated is crucial before using your mobile plan. If you are unsure whether your eSIM is active, follow these steps to check its status and troubleshoot any issues.
First, consider whether you are at your travel destination. Your eSIM may not work properly until you arrive. If you are not there yet, it is recommended to keep the eSIM turned off and ensure that Data Roaming is disabled.
For iPhone Users (iOS)
To double check if the eSIM is activated correctly on your Android device, please follow the steps below:
📌 Please note: These instructions may vary slightly by device or Android version.
Wondering how to check your mobile balance, remaining data, or minutes?
Here’s a complete guide for all major networks and eSIM providers.
If you’re not sure who your network or eSIM provider is, please check your order confirmation email.
Our AU package offers unlimited data, so there’s no need to check your allowance — you can enjoy seamless connectivity without limits.
You can check your Dtac eSIM balance as follows:
Credit Balance: Dial 1211*9# and press call.
Bundle Balance: Dial 1038*9# and press call.
You can check your EE SIM or eSIM balance using any of the following methods:
Text AL to 150 to receive your credit balance by SMS.
Text BA to 150 to get your bundle balance and expiry date.
Call 150 and follow the automated prompts for your current balance.
Log into the EE App or visit ee.co.uk to manage your account online.
To check your Lycamobile Netherlands balance:
Dial 1244 or +31 6 84 001 244.
To check your Lycamobile Portugal balance:
Dial *131# to view your credit, data, and minutes.
You can also check through the My Lycamobile app or website.
To check your Lycamobile UK data and minutes:
Dial *137# and press the call button. Your balance and bundle details will appear instantly on your screen.
Quick ways to check your Lycamobile USA balance:
Dial *611# to see your balance on-screen.
Dial 94# and press send.
Log into your Lycamobile USA app or account to view your data and credit.
For Mobifone eSIMs, check your balance by:
SMS: Send KT ALL to 9199 (free).
Phone: Dial 0905# and press call.
To check your Orange balance:
Dial #123# and press the call button. You’ll see a message on your screen showing your remaining data, calls, and SMS allowances.
For the majority of plans, you can also check your remaining data and validity directly in our app:
Open the Sim Local App.
Go to My eSIM.
You’ll see a circular wheel showing your current
Tip: You’ll also receive an SMS alert when you reach 80% of your data usage.
If you have a SmartRoam plan, you can easily check your remaining data and validity directly in our app:
Open the Sim Local App.
Go to My eSIM.
You’ll see a circular wheel showing your current balance, data usage, and expiry in real time.
You can check your Three Ireland balance in several ways:
Send BALANCE to 50272 via SMS.
Dial 1745 from your Three phone.
Log into the My3 App or My3 online account to see your data and usage.
Checking your Three UK balance is simple:
Dial 444 from your Three SIM and press the call button. Follow the automated menu to hear your credit and data usage instantly.
To check your Vodafone Greece balance:
Text Y to 1252 to receive a message with your remaining bundle details.
To check your Vodafone Ireland remaining allowances:
Dial *#1345# and press the call button. A message will pop up showing your credit and data details.
To continue using your phone after the initial validity period expires, or if you have exhausted your allowance, follow the instructions below to top up, depending on your network operator. This way, you can keep your local number if your plan includes one.
Our Smartroam plans allow for top ups via Sim Local website or app.
If you have purchased a Smartroam plan, you will be able to purchase an add-on through your account via My eSIM.
To top up your EE eSIM/SIM card you may use the following options:
To top up your eSIM, you can go to the Orange Travel website: https://travel.orange.com/en/top-up, select the relevant offer, inputs your mobile number, the amount you wish to top-up and proceed to make a payment.
You can top up your Three SIM using one of the following options:
Top up easily using one of these methods:
You can top up your LycaMobile eSIM in several ways:
Visit the official Lycamobile USA top-up page and follow the on-screen steps: lycamobile.us/en/quick-top-up
Dtac eSIMs don’t currently support top-ups.
To continue using data, you’ll need to purchase a new eSIM plan.
You can top up your Vodafone Ireland account quickly:
Top up your Vodafone Greece SIM in one of these ways:
AU eSIMs don’t currently support top-ups.
To extend your plan, you’ll need to purchase a new eSIM plan.
Top-up is not supported. To extend your plan, you’ll need to purchase a new eSIM plan.
Sim Local is the global leader in travel SIM card and eSIM retail. We’ve already connected 5 million travellers, and we’re just getting started.
Sim Local accepts:
All credit/debit card transactions on simlocal.com are processed securely by Stripe, to keep your information safe.
We partner with local network carriers around the world to offer competitive plans that offer data, texts, and calls at affordable rates.
When you purchase and activate a plan from Sim Local, we will provide you with download details for your eSIM, along with instructions on how to install it to your device.
Please Note:
At Sim Local, we offer a range of eSIM plans with coverage in over 200+ destinations worldwide.
Review our vast destination list here: www.simlocal.com/destinations
📌 Important:
Coverage and roaming availability vary depending on the specific plan and destination.
Please carefully review the plan details and destination list before purchase to ensure your chosen destination is included.
Yes, we can facilitate bulk orders. The minimum order quantity is 50 units. We offer discounts based on the plan you choose.
To request a bulk order and discount, please email customerqueries@simlocal.com with:
Product name (include the product link)
Quantity
Company name
Company contact details (email and phone number)
Process:
We’ll review your request and confirm the applicable discount.
We’ll issue an invoice for payment.
Once payment is received, we’ll provide a PDF with the available plans.
Yes, we sell physical SIM cards at our stores, vending machines and partners stores. Please check all of our locations here.
We don’t provide delivery of physical SIM cards. To buy a physical SIM card you need to visit one of our stores or vending machines located in many airports around the world. Alternatively, you can buy an online eSIM on our website and start using it instantly.
If you’ve successfully installed your eSIM but are unable to connect, follow the steps below to identify and fix the issue.
If your plan is for use outside your home country, it won’t activate until you arrive at your destination.
Try connecting once you’ve landed in the country where your eSIM plan is valid.
Your eSIM must be active and set as the data SIM on your device.
On iPhone:
Go to Settings → Mobile Service (or Cellular) → Mobile Data (or Cellular Data), then tap and select your new eSIM as the active data line.
On Android:
Go to Settings → Connections → SIM Manager, then make sure your new eSIM is switched ON and selected for data usage.
Your eSIM may not connect if Data Roaming is turned off.
On iPhone:
Go to Settings → Mobile Service (or Cellular) → SIMs, select your new eSIM, and toggle Data Roaming ON.
On Android:
Go to Settings → Connections → Mobile Networks, and make sure Data Roaming is toggled ON.
Incorrect APN settings can prevent your eSIM from connecting.
Your correct APN depends on your eSIM provider (for example: Smartroam, EE, Three, Orange, etc). You can find your provider in your order confirmation email.
For details on updating your APN, see this article APN Settings.
After completing all the steps above, restart your phone to refresh your network connection.
If after restarting you still cannot see signal bars on your phone, you can manually choose a different network.
On iPhone:
Open Settings → Mobile Data → Network Selection.
Turn off Automatic.
Wait a few moments while your phone searches for available networks.
When the list appears, select a network manually.
Check your signal bars and data performance.
If no coverage, repeat the process and try another network.
On Android:
Open Settings → Network & Internet (or Connections on Samsung).
Tap Mobile Network (or SIMs, depending on your device).
Turn off Automatically select network.
Wait for the list of available networks to load.
Select one network at a time and check your signal.
Try other networks until you find the one with the best coverage.
Unfortunately, for most of our operators, it’s not possible to recover or re-download an eSIM once it has been deleted — with the exception of Smartroam.
You can reinstall it on the same device using manual installation.
Note: The QR code will not work — you must use the manual activation method.
Your activation codes are available in your order confirmation email from noreply@simlocal.com.
If your eSIM has never been activated, please contact one of our human agents.
Our team will review your case and advise on any options that may be available.
In this case, we’re unable to offer a replacement or recovery.
However, you can try contacting your network operator directly for further support.
If you see a "PDP Authentication Failure" message on your device, it means your eSIM cannot connect to the network. This usually happens for one of the reasons below.
This error often appears when your eSIM is being used in the wrong location.
For example, if you purchased an eSIM plan for the UK but are trying to use it in the US, your eSIM will not connect.
Make sure you are in the country or region your eSIM plan is intended for.
If your eSIM was working normally but suddenly stopped and shows this error, you may have used up your data bundle.
For instance, if you bought a 5 GB plan, the connection will stop once you have used all 5 GB.
To check your balance, follow the instructions in this article depending on your eSIM provider: Check my balance.
If you see the message “This code is no longer valid” or “Unable to Activate eSIM” when trying to install your eSIM, it usually means the eSIM has already been installed on your device.
Please check whether your eSIM is already installed by following the steps below, depending on your phone:
Go to Settings
Tap Mobile Service (or Cellular)
Check if your eSIM is listed under SIMs. It may appear as “Secondary”, “Travel”, “Business”, or something similar.
If your new eSIM appears, you can turn it on whenever you wish to use it.
Make sure Data Roaming is enabled for that eSIM.
To select it for mobile data:
Settings → Mobile Service (or Cellular) → Mobile Data → choose your new eSIM.
To select it for calls and texts (if included in your plan):
Settings → Mobile Service → Default Voice Line → choose your new eSIM.
Go to Settings
Tap Network & Internet or Connections
Tap SIMs or SIM Manager
Check if your eSIM is listed and active. It may appear as “SIM 2”, “Mobile Plan”, “Travel”, or with your network name.
Select the eSIM as the preferred SIM for Mobile Data.
Select it for Calls and Messages if your plan includes these services.
To enable roaming:
Connections → Mobile Networks → Data Roaming → make sure roaming is turned ON for the eSIM.
If your eSIM is not listed or not installed, please try installing it manually (the QR code will not work).
Try downloading your eSIM manually using the download codes provided with your plan.
Then, follow the instructions below depending on your device:
Go to Settings.
Then select Connections.
Tap SIM manager.
Tap Add eSIM or Add mobile plan.
Select Use QR code and then Enter activation code.
Paste your activation code (copied from your order confirmation email or Sim Local account).
If you try to install an eSIM but you are not yet in the destination country, it will not be able to complete activation, as it cannot connect to the destination’s local network.
However, if your eSIM is installed on your device, you do not need to complete activation until you arrive. Once you arrive at your destination, your eSIM will connect to the local network. You can start browsing the internet, checking your messages, and accessing your favourite apps.
You can double check if your eSIM is activated on your iOS using this link: How to Check if eSIM is activated (iOS) and this link for Android: How to Check if eSIM is activated (Android).
If your eSIM is active but you're not getting internet, the Access Point Name (APN) settings might be the missing puzzle piece.🧩
Think of the APN as the set of instructions your phone uses to connect to the internet via your mobile provider. If it’s not set up right, your data just won’t flow. No TikTok, no maps, no nothing.
Sometimes your phone gets this info automatically. But you might need to enter the APN manually. Don’t worry — it’s easier than it sounds!
That’s it — sometimes you might need to restart your phone!
📌 Please note: These instructions may vary slightly by device or Android version.
💡 Unsure about your eSIM provider? You can easily check your plan details on our website to confirm which network you’re using - click here or your order confirmation email from noreply@simlocal.com.
| eSIM Provider | Network Logo | iOS | Android |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smartroam | APN: mobiledata Username: (leave blank) Password: (leave blank) |
Name: Manx APN: mobiledata Username: (leave blank) Password: (leave blank) |
|
| Smartroam | APN: internet Username: (leave blank) Password: (leave blank) |
Name: Manx APN: internet Username: (leave blank) Password: (leave blank) |
|
| Digicel | APN: web.digiceljamaica.com Username: (leave blank) Password: (leave blank) |
Name: Digicel APN: web.digiceljamaica.com Username: (leave blank) Password: (leave blank) |
|
| EE | APN: everywhere Username: eesecure Password: secure |
Name: EE APN: everywhere Username: eesecure Password: secure |
|
| Lycamobile | APN: data.lycamobile.co.uk Username: (leave blank) Password: (leave blank) |
Name: lycamobile APN: data.lycamobile.co.uk Username: (leave blank) Password: (leave blank) |
|
| Orange FR | APN: Orange Username: orange Password: orange |
Name: Orange France APN: Orange Username: orange Password: orange |
|
| Three | APN: three.co.uk Username: (leave blank) Password: (leave blank) |
Name: Three APN: three.co.uk Username: (leave blank) Password: (leave blank) |
|
| eSim Choice | APN: globaldata Username: (leave blank) Password: (leave blank) |
Name: flexiroam APN: globaldata Username: (leave blank) Password: (leave blank) |
|
| AU | APN: au.au-net.ne.jp Username: (leave blank) Password: au |
Name: LTE Net APN: au.au-net.ne.jp Username: (leave blank) Password: au |
|
| DTAC | APN: www.dtac.co.th Username: (leave blank) Password: (leave blank) |
Name: DTAC Internet APN: www.dtac.co.th Username: (leave blank) Password: (leave blank) |
Your eSIM will not connect if Data Roaming is turned off.
To turn it on, follow the steps below:
Go to Settings → Mobile Service (or Cellular) → SIMs, select your new eSIM, and toggle Data Roaming ON.
Go to Settings → Connections → Mobile Networks, and make sure Data Roaming is toggled ON.
If your eSIM is data-only, don't panic! You can still keep in touch with friends and family.
Here are three ways to make phone calls with a data-only eSIM:
The best way to make a phone call with a data-only eSIM is with an internet-based calling app like WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Skype.
These free services allow you to place and receive calls over the internet. They help you avoid costly roaming charges by using your eSIM data for connection.
Most of these apps will automatically sync your contacts, making it easy to stay connected with your friends and family, however the person you are calling must also have the app downloaded.
It’s a good idea to download one of these options before you start your trip and share it with your friends and family, so they know how to reach you.
Facebook Messenger and Instagram DMs both have calling features.
You will need to ensure that your contacts also use this method of connection but please ensure data roaming is switched off for your primary SIM line to avoid extra charges.
You can continue to use your primary SIM line for voice and text when you travel.
However, this will use your home plan (not your eSIM data plan), and roaming fees may apply.
It's a good idea to first check in with your carrier about their roaming rates to avoid large bills when you return!
To use your primary line to place calls, you'll need to turn it on and enable it for calls and/or texts (you can do this in your phone settings).
Your phone will continue to use your eSIM to access data and switch to your home line when you want to place a call.
If you have more than one eSIM, you can rename or label them to easily identify each plan, such as "Travel", "Work", or "Home".
Go to Settings → Mobile Data (or Cellular).
Tap the eSIM plan you want to rename.
Tap Label.
Choose a preset label (such as Primary, Travel, or Business), or select Custom Label to create your own.
Steps may vary slightly depending on your device brand:
Open Settings.
Tap Network & Internet (or Connections on Samsung).
Select SIMs or SIM manager.
Choose the eSIM you want to rename.
Tap SIM name or Edit SIM name.
Enter your new label (for example, Travel eSIM or Sim Local).
Tap Save or OK.
For Samsung devices:
Go to Settings → Connections → SIM manager → [Your eSIM] → Edit name.
Renaming your eSIM helps you:
Identify which plan is active for calls, texts, or data.
Avoid confusion when switching between your primary and travel eSIMs
You may wish to turn your eSIM off when you return home or on a trip. If you have data and the eSIM is still valid, you can switch it back on when needed.
Once you’re back home, you can switch your primary line back on and delete your travel eSIM.
Only delete an eSIM when you no longer need it — once deleted, it cannot be reinstalled, as most eSIMs are one-time downloads.
Note: Only Smartroam allows you to reinstall the eSIM on the same device using manual activation.
Go to Settings → Mobile Service (or Cellular).
Tap the plan you want to remove under SIMs.
Tap Delete eSIM.
Confirm the deletion.
Go to Settings → Connections → SIM manager.
Under eSIMs, select the eSIM you want to remove.
Tap Remove or Delete eSIM profile.
Confirm to delete the eSIM.
Go to Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs.
Select the eSIM you want to remove.
Tap Delete or Remove SIM.
Confirm when prompted.